Home Energy Use - 10 Saving Tips

Understanding power use will save energy at home

There are two considerations when you are thinking about saving energy at home - saving money and saving the planet by reducing emissions. Many things you can do to save money also help reduce carbon emissions, but some do not. Financially, there are things you can do to immediate effect that are free and those that require some work and money. 

Free and Immediate:

1. Switch off computers, laptops, televisions, set top boxes, game consoles and all audio and video equipment - and that includes standby power.  Standby power is a key source of hidden energy costs that could amount for 10 per cent of your electricity bill, so when not in use turn appliances off at the wall.
2. Unplug or turn off unnecessary power switches during the night, such as mobile phone chargers
3. In the hotter months, close drapes and blinds when the sun is at its peak in order to keep the sunshine from overheating your house. 

Work and Money - a little or a lot:

1. Install energy efficient shower heads.
2. Change to energy efficient light bulbs; they cost a little more upfront, but use less energy and provide the same amount of light. Energy efficient light bulbs are initially more expensive, but will use far less power and require changing less often.
3. Insulate your walls and ceilings
4. Install a Whirly Bird on your roof
5. If your home is painted a dark colour, change it to a light colour. Houses painted in dark colours absorb up to 90% of the sun's heat, whereas houses painted in light colours reflect it.
6. Replace old televisions
7. Install a Smart power management system

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